Weatherstripping is one of the smallest, simplest parts of your garage door system — but it plays a huge role in protecting your home, lowering energy bills, and keeping your garage dry and pest-free. When it starts to wear out, homeowners usually don’t notice until the bigger problems show up… and by then, the damage is already done.

At State Line Garage Doors, we see weatherstripping issues every week across Lawrenceburg, Savannah, Muscle Shoals, Spring Hill, and Northern Alabama. Here’s how to know when it needs replacing — and why ignoring it can cost you more than you think.

What Weatherstripping Actually Does

Weatherstripping is the rubber seal around the bottom and sometimes the sides and top of your garage door. Its job is simple:

• Seal out drafts

• Prevent water from entering

• Block pests and insects

• Reduce outdoor noise

• Improve garage insulation

• Protect the interior from dust, pollen, and debris

When it’s in good shape, it forms a tight barrier that works year-round — no matter the weather.

How to Tell When Weatherstripping Needs Replacing

Most homeowners don’t inspect their garage door seals regularly, which means early warning signs go unnoticed. Here’s what to look for:

Gaps or Visible Light

If you can see daylight under or around the door, the seal is no longer effective.

Cracked or Brittle Rubber

Tennessee heat, humidity, and UV exposure cause the rubber to dry out, shrink, and crack.

Flattened or Compressed Seal

Over time, the bottom seal loses its shape and no longer rebounds.

Water Traces or Damp Spots

If you notice moisture inside the garage after rain, the seal isn’t doing its job.

Cold Drafts or Temperature Swings

A failing seal allows outdoor air to flow freely into your garage — especially noticeable in winter.

Pest Activity

Ants, spiders, mice, or even small snakes can enter through surprisingly small gaps.

If you see one or more of these signs, it’s time to replace the weatherstripping.

What Happens If You Don’t Replace It

Ignoring worn-out weatherstripping might seem harmless — but it leads to a long list of issues.

1. Higher Energy Bills

A drafty garage affects the temperature of nearby rooms, increasing heating and cooling costs. If your garage is attached to your home, this impact is even greater.

2. Water Damage and Mold Risk

Water intrusion can lead to:

• Mold growth

• Wood rot

• Rusted tools

• Damaged flooring

• Electrical hazards

Even small leaks add up over time.

3. Increased Pest Problems

Gaps under garage doors are one of the top entry points for:

• Rodents

• Wasps

• Roaches

• Silverfish

• Snakes

Replacing weatherstripping is one of the simplest pest-proofing steps you can take.

4. Noise, Dust, and Odors

Dust storms, pollen, leaves, lawn debris, and neighborhood noise all travel through loose seals.

5. Reduced Door Lifespan

Moisture and debris buildup near the base of the door can cause:

• Rust on metal doors

• Warping on wood doors

• Premature panel wear

Weatherstripping protects the door itself — not just your garage.

6. Mechanical Strain on the Opener

If your door doesn’t seal evenly, the opener may “fight” against the uneven alignment, putting extra stress on:

• Tracks

• Rollers

• Motor

• Springs

This leads to more frequent repairs and a shorter lifespan.

How Often Should You Replace Weatherstripping?

In Tennessee and Northern Alabama’s mix of heat, humidity, and temperature swings, most weatherstripping lasts:

• 2–3 years for bottom seals

• 3–5 years for side and top seals

• Less if the garage gets full sun exposure

If you’re unsure, we can inspect it during any service call or annual maintenance visit.

Choosing the Right Weatherstripping

Not all weatherstripping is created equal. The best options depend on:

• Door material

• Door size

• Local climate

• Whether your garage is finished or insulated

• Pest exposure

• Flood-prone or rainy locations

At State Line Garage Doors, we install high-quality seals designed for our region’s moisture and humidity levels — not the flimsy DIY kits that crack in a season.

A Small Upgrade With Big Benefits

Replacing worn weatherstripping is one of the fastest, easiest, and most affordable ways to protect your garage and improve home comfort. It prevents bigger issues, saves money, and keeps your garage secure from weather and pests.

If your seal looks worn — or you’re seeing gaps, light, or moisture — we can replace it quickly and professionally.

State Line Garage Doors
Trusted locally. Family-owned. Serving Lawrenceburg and all surrounding communities within 60 miles.